DHS for a Day V: Supply Chain Security and Trade Facilitation

Earlier this month, DHS hosted the fifth DHS for a Day in Detroit, Michigan as part of our ongoing series of day-long events to brief private sector partners about DHS. The event focused on supply chain security and trade facilitation – two issues directly relevant to the Detroit business community. Roughly 300,000 people and $1.5 billion in trade cross the northern border every day, representing the largest bilateral flows of goods and people in the world.

In this spirit, the day featured a variety of DHS programs that create a more secure Northern border, while facilitating legitimate trade and travel. These initiatives, such as Global Entry and the Customs and Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CT-PAT), expedite the screening process for trusted travelers and shippers who pass rigorous security checks -- and enhance security by focusing on unknown and/or dangerous individuals and goods.

By focusing on the passengers and cargo that pose the greatest threat, these programs also support our efforts to make the most of every government dollar, promoting both economic security and national security.

In addition to learning about the Department’s trusted traveler and trusted shipper programs, DHS for a Day participants also toured the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter (CGC) Bristol Bay, which keeps shipping lanes open months longer each year, allowing early transportation of millions of tons of iron ore and other materials.

Overall, DHS for a Day in Detroit provided our private sector partners with a glimpse of the work that DHS does every day to keep our nation’s borders and economy secure. However, security is a shared responsibility. Through sustained partnerships with the private sector we can keep our hometowns and our homeland safe.

Published by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Washington, D.C.